Access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene is the most basic human need for health and well-being. Therefore the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) notably SDG 6 underlines the global commitment to ensure access to water and sanitation for all by 2030.
However, according to UN-Water, approximately 703 million people worldwide still lack access to clean water by 2022, while more than 4 billion others lack access to adequate sanitation.
For this reason, Vice Chairman of the National Organizing Committee (NOC) of the 10th World Water Forum, also as Minister of Public Works and Public Housing of the Republic of Indonesia, Basuki Hadimuljono, encourages governments and world leaders to prioritize clean water and sanitation.
"The acceleration of the SDG 6 aims to ensure the achievement of clean water and sustainable sanitation for all by 2030. This commitment needs to be recognized by all stakeholders, including political leaders," said Minister Basuki.
The Increasing Demand and Decreasing Supply of Water
Water is intrinsically linked to several SDGs, including but not limited to clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), zero hunger (SDG 2), good health and well-being (SDG 3), and life below water (SDG 14).
According to the Indonesia Geospatial Information Agency, the average person needs 60 liters per person per day. This demand is expected to rise due to population growth and industrialization.
Meanwhile, the quality and availability of clean water is declining due to environmental degradation and climate change. The World Resources Institute's water Risk atlas reports that 25 countries face annual extremely high water stress.
Achieving SDG 6 requires not only access to clean and safe water but also sustainable water management practices that ensure equitable distribution, water quality, and the preservation of ecosystems.
Role of the International Organizations
The international water-related organizations play a pivotal role in pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing global water challenges and developing sustainable water management.
Honorary President of the World Water Council, Benedito Braga stated that International water-related associations can contribute to the achievement of SDG 6 with technical solutions. Here is how they can contribute to achieve universal access to water and sanitation.
1. Policy Advocacy and Framework Development
International water-related organizations should advocate for relevant water policies at both national and international levels. They can help government develop regulatory framework that promote sustainable water use, efficient allocation of resources, and integrated water resource management.
2. Capacity Building
These organizations should support capacity building in countries with limited water management expertise. This involves providing training, knowledge sharing, and technology transfer to empower local communities and institutions to manage their water resources effectively.
3. Research and Data Provision
Data is critical for informed decision-making. International water-related organizations should collaborate in research and data provisions, creating a global knowledge base for assessing water availability, quality, and usage trends.
4. project Implementation and Financing
They should also facilitate the financing and implementation of water-related projects, especially in regions facing water scarcity and inadequate infrastructure. By mobilizing resources and coordinating efforts, these organizations can help bridge funding gaps and ensure project success.
5. Monitoring and Reporting
Regular monitoring and reporting on water-related progress are essentials. international water-related organizations can help track achievements of very country in meeting their SDG targets, identify challenges, and recommend corrective actions.
Unify Global Commitment
In order to achieve the SDG 6 target, the Indonesian government has taken significant steps to ensure access to safe and adequate drinking water and sanitation for all.
Throughout 2022, various urban and rural clean water supply programs were underway. Currently, access to clean water in Indonesia gas reached 90 percent, while access to decent sanitation has reached around 80 percent. These achievements demonstrate Indonesia's commitment to provide a healthy and clean environment for all.
During the 3rd Global Water Security Seminar Implementation of SDG 6 Progress and Monitoring on September 11, 2023 in Beijing, China, minister Basuki urged all parties to strengthen and unite global commitments in implementing water-related agendas.
In addition, the 18th World Water Congress should culminate in a statement of Commitment followed by the 10th World Water Forum scheduled on may 18-24, 2024 in Bali, Indonesia.
The 10th World Water forum is a global platform to discuss Water for Security and Prosperity, which is in line with the commitment of countries to conserving water for future generations.
Most Importantly, collaborations need to be improved by the shared commitment to achieving the goal of water and sanitation for all. The government, international water-related organizations, and the global community should make the best contribution for a more sustainable world.